Recent developments in our understanding of the molecular structure and functioning of the human rhinoviruses are briefly reviewed. The determination of virus structure at near atomic resolution has provided a wealth of information that can be used to help interpret dynamic properties of the virus. The mechanisms involved in capsid assembly, attachment to cell surfaces, uncoating, and the initiation of infection and antibody-mediated neutralization of infectivity can all be examined afresh in the light of the structural data. In addition, molecular techniques for manipulating and analyzing the biological properties of nucleic acids and proteins are providing a wealth of information on details of the replication machinery of the viruses. Probably one of the least understood aspects of viral replication is the precise nature of the interactions between host and viral components during infection. Unfortunately, despite all of these impressive scientific advances the cure for the common cold is still elusive.